IdiomDaily Life
English
Englishreinvent the wheel
Meaning: To waste effort creating something that already exists.
Example: “There's already a template for this; don't reinvent the wheel.”
Origin: The wheel is the classic example of an invention nobody needs to make again. The phrase became common in the second half of the 20th century.
Equivalents in other languages
French: Enfoncer une porte ouverte Literally: To break down an open door
More English idioms
- protect one's turf To defend one's area of control or responsibility against others.
- chase rainbows To pursue something unrealistic.
- on one's toes Alert and ready to react.
- left high and dry Stranded or abandoned without help.
- at a snail's pace Very slowly.
- no picnic Not easy or pleasant.
Explore another collection: Compliments & Insults
Compliments and insults from around the world, from the sweet to the savage.
- Tu es un as You're brilliant at what you do — the very best.
- Tu as de la répartie You're brilliantly quick-witted — always ready with the perfect comeback.
- Eres un crack You're brilliant — a total star at what you do.
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